Fire extinguishers are an important safety feature in every business. A fire can strike at any time — and some businesses are more at risk than others.

A fire could even block your exit from a burning building. In these situations, fire extinguishers are a must.

Proper maintenance and inspections are a must to comply with regulations. You also need to know which types of fire extinguishers your business should have on hand.

To know how a fire extinguisher works, you should understand the nature of fire. For a fire to exist, it needs the following four components:

You start with firelogs for the fuel. Then, you light a match or use friction to produce heat.

Since fuel, heat and oxygen are present, a chain reaction begins. This is the phenomenon we call fire.

What you’re actually doing is taking away the heat and stopping the chain reaction. Likewise, letting the fire burn without adding any more wood will cause the fire to go out.

A fire extinguisher works by removing one of the four elements needed for a fire. It could remove heat, reduce oxygen levels or even put a barrier over fuel to disrupt the chain reaction.

Across industries, businesses are at risk of a wide range of fires with different fuel sources. You need to know which types of fire you’re dealing with to choose the appropriate fire extinguisher.

Your area of business affects the types of fires you’re at risk of experiencing. Here are the different types of fires seen across industries:

Just as there are different types of fires, there are also different types of fire extinguishers. Your business will be more at risk of certain types of fires than others, so you choose a fire extinguisher accordingly.

Here are the basics of fire extinguishers that you need to know.

Does your business regularly deal with cooking grease. Maybe you and your employees use energized electrical equipment to get the job done.

When you get beyond everyday combustibles, you’ll find that water can be ineffective against certain fires. That’s why there are several different types of fire extinguishers to combat different types of fires.

Each type of fire extinguisher will share similar features with other types. Knowing these features will help you in situations when you might need to use a fire extinguisher that you’re unfamiliar with.

Fire extinguishers come in many sizes. Most people are familiar with the classic fire extinguisher hanging on the walls of many businesses and public buildings.

Yet, several other fire extinguisher sizes exist for use in various situations. They range from handheld sizes to extinguishers needing a cart with wheels to move around.

You and your employees need to know how and when to use a fire extinguisher during emergencies. Every situation is different, so ask yourself these questions before using a fire extinguisher:

If you can answer “yes” to the above questions, then you’re ready to use the fire extinguisher. Follow these steps:

For this reason, you must inspect and maintain your fire extinguishers. Inspections should occur every year according to federal, state and local regulations and codes.

Note that every six to 12 years, you should perform a more rigorous inspection on your fire extinguishers. You risk violating local laws and regulations if you do not have regular inspections for your fire extinguishers.

These include the performance and documentation of monthly visual inspections and tests. Failure to perform these inspections can result in fines and other repercussions.

The reason for this goes beyond meeting regulations. Inspecting your portable fire extinguishers is an investment in the safety of your employees every day.

Inspections of portable fire extinguishers include a detailed examination of the following items: If your fire extinguishers pass the inspection, the inspector will apply a tag to the extinguisher.

If your company’s fire extinguishers need an inspection, Telgian is the company to call. We inspect and test fire extinguishers at approximately 50,000 locations every year.

We’ll perform every required fire extinguisher inspection you need. This includes helping you stay compliant with NFPA 10, manufacturer requirements and all applicable laws and standards.

Call us at 1-877-TELGIAN to speak to one of our professional representatives. Or contact us online for more information about how we can help keep your business’s fire extinguishers ready for action.

Fire extinguishers are provided to the labs in the event that a small fire develops. A small fire can be defined as “trash can-sized” or an incipient stage fire.

ABC-rated, multipurpose, dry powder extinguishers are the most common on campus, particularly in the corridors of the academic buildings. They are almost always RED in color and have either a long narrow hose or no hose (just a short nozzle).

There are also some D extinguishers used for metal fires located in the Chemistry Building. OSHA requires that fire extinguishers receive two types of inspections to ensure that they work when activated:

Monthly visual inspections of the fire extinguishers inside the labs are the responsibility of the individuals in the work area. The monthly inspection helps to ensure the work place is safe in two ways.

Second, by inspecting the extinguishers monthly, workers can help to ensure that they are in good condition and will work when necessary. Location – Is the fire extinguisher mounted on the wall.

Condition – Is the seal in place and is the gauge needle in the green.

If the fire extinguisher is not mounted on the wall or the gauge indicates that it is not in working condition, then you will need to contact Campus Services at 404-727-7378 for a replacement. Building evacuation routes are posted near the stairwells and elevators of each research building.

If a fire is in the beginning stages, then you may be able to put out the fire using a nearby fire extinguisher. Once you locate the fire extinguisher, position yourself several feet away from the fire and keep your back towards the nearest exit.

When you are ready to discharge the fire extinguisher, remember the P.A.S.S. principle.

PULL the pin to unlock the operative lever and allow the extinguisher to discharge. AIM low.

SWEEP from side to side moving carefully toward the fire. keep the fire extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth until flames are out.

If you discover a fire or notice smoke, then you will need to get to safety. Remember the acronym R.A.C.E.

R = Remove all persons in immediate danger to safety A = Activate manual pull station AND call or have someone call Emory Police at 911 from any campus phone C = Close doors and fires shutters to prevent the spread of smoke and fire. E = Extinguish the fire (if you are able).

Alert nearby laboratories and office personnel that a fire is in progress by pulling the nearest fire alarm. If you are located above the ground floor, locate the nearest stairwell to descend to the ground floor.

If the door is hot, do not open it. Take an alternate route to evacuate the building.

Boat fire extinguishers are essential pieces of safety equipment for protecting your vessel and the people on board. Understanding the various types of fire extinguishers and their proper usage can make all the difference in preventing and effectively extinguishing fires.

It is crucial for boat owners to follow fire extinguisher regulations, which may differ depending on the size and type of boat. Ensuring that your fire extinguishers are well-maintained and serviced not only guarantees their effectiveness but also helps to fulfill any legal requirements.

When it comes to boating safety, having the right fire extinguisher on board is crucial. There are several types of fire extinguishers suitable for use on boats, and each is designed to tackle different types of fires.

It’s important to note that fire extinguishers must be replaced 12 years after manufacture, according to the new fire extinguisher regulations effective April 20, 2022. When choosing a fire extinguisher for your vessel, consider the types of fires you might encounter.

Coast Guard. Regular maintenance and inspection of your boat’s fire extinguishers are essential to ensure they remain in good working condition.

By carrying the appropriate fire extinguishers and maintaining them properly, you can be confident that you have the necessary tools to tackle fires and ensure the safety of your vessel and its occupants. Boat fire extinguishers are an essential safety component on recreational boats.

Ensuring that a functional fire extinguisher is available on a boat can mean the difference between a manageable situation and a disaster. The type and number of fire extinguishers required on recreational boats depends on factors such as the boat’s length and its model year.

On the other hand, vessels with a model year between 1953 and 2017 may carry either unexpired 5-B or 20-B-rated fire extinguishers. When selecting a boat fire extinguisher, it is essential to choose one that is specifically designed for marine use.

Furthermore, the U.S. Coast Guard requires marine fire extinguishers on all recreational boats where a fire hazard could be expected from the engines or fuel system.

This includes checking the pressure gauge, inspecting the date stamp, and ensuring there is no visible corrosion or damage. Additionally, it is important to familiarize oneself with the proper use and functioning of a fire extinguisher, as well as the location on the boat where it is stored.

In conclusion, boat fire extinguishers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of recreational boats by providing an effective means to combat fires, especially in high-risk areas such as the engine compartment. By understanding the importance of these devices, selecting the appropriate type, and performing regular maintenance, boat owners can better protect their vessels and ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Considering the appropriate fire extinguisher type is crucial when selecting one for your vessel. Here, we discuss the main types of boat fire extinguishers and their applications.

These extinguishers typically use a dry chemical agent to suppress the fire. It is essential to invest in a Class BC extinguisher for any boat with enclosed engine compartments and electrical systems.

They can address virtually any onboard fires, including those involving wood, paper, and plastic. This type of fire extinguisher uses a monoammonium phosphate-based agent, making it ideal for boats with increased risk factors, such as those with cooking and heating equipment.

As for fire extinguisher ratings and regulations, the law requires model year 2018 and newer boats to carry extinguishers labeled 5-B, 10-B, or 20-B. Such equipment can be used on models dating back to 1953 as well.

To select the appropriate boat fire extinguisher, consider factors such as boat size, fuel type, and onboard equipment. Having a fire extinguisher with the right rating and type can ensure you have the necessary protection in case of a fire emergency while staying compliant with safety regulations.

Knowing the fire types is essential in choosing the right fire extinguisher for combating them effectively. Class A fires involve solid combustibles like trash, paper, wood, fabric, and certain plastics.

It is important to ensure that there is a fire extinguisher on your boat that can handle Class A fires before setting sail. Class B fires involve flammable liquids and gases such as fuel, solvents, propane, and butane.

Gasoline fires fall under this category, making this type of fire common in boating accidents. A fire extinguisher capable of handling Class B fires is a must-have on any boat.

Since boats have numerous electrical systems and components, the risk of electrical fires is always present. It is vital to have a fire extinguisher that can combat Class C fires without causing further damage to electrical equipment.

Choosing the right fire extinguisher that covers Class A, B, and C fires is a crucial part of ensuring safety on the water. By understanding the different fire types and having the appropriate fire extinguisher on board, you can reduce the risk of fire-related complications during your boating adventures.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) plays a crucial role in setting and enforcing these regulations for recreational boats in the United States. Recreational boats are required to carry marine fire extinguishers based on criteria such as the presence of permanently installed fuel tanks and boat length.

For boats between 40 and 65 feet, either three 5-B fire extinguishers or one 20-B fire extinguisher and one 5-B fire extinguisher are needed. Boats longer than 65 feet should consult federal regulations for specific requirements (source).

A recommended fire extinguisher for boats is the tri-class (1A:10BC) fire extinguisher. This type of extinguisher can handle most boating fire scenarios as it is designed for Class A, B, and C fires (source).

Starting from April 20, 2022, the USCG mandates that all extinguishers on boats over 26 feet must have a 12-year (or less) expiration date from the date of manufacture (source). Compliance with fire extinguisher regulations is essential for boating safety.

Proper maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishers are essential for ensuring their effectiveness in case of an emergency. Boat owners should regularly check and service their fire extinguishers according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

By following these guidelines, boat owners can ensure their fire extinguishers remain in optimal condition, ready to protect against potential fires on their vessels. Regular maintenance and servicing not.

Fires can break out unexpectedly and can cause a lot of damage if not put out quickly. Having a fire extinguisher can help you control the situation until the fire department arrives.

Each type is designed to put out a specific type of fire. Understanding what the symbols on a fire extinguisher indicate is essential to choosing the right type of extinguisher for the right application.

Per NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers: “Annex B Recommended Markings to Indicate Extinguisher Suitability According to Class of FireThis annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is included for informational purposes only.B.1 General.B.1.1 Markings should be applied by decals that are durable and resistant to color fading (see Figure B.1.1).

Size and form should permit easy legibility at a distance of 3 ft (1 m). The labels shown in Figure B.1.1 are consistent with fire extinguishers that have been tested and listed in accordance with fire test standards.

(See Figure B.1.1.)B.2.2 Letter-shaped symbol markings, as previously recommended, are shown in Figure B.2.2. Note that fire extinguishers suitable for more than one class of fire were identified by multiple symbols placed in a horizontal sequence”.

Here are the different types of fire extinguishers you should know about: Water fire extinguishers are used to put out Class A fires, which involve common combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth.

They work by cooling the fuel and removing the heat element from the fire. Water fire extinguishers should not be used on electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids.

CO2 fire extinguishers are used to put out Class B and electrical fires. They contain carbon dioxide gas that displaces oxygen, suffocating the fire.

Powder fire extinguishers are used to put out Class A, Class B, and Class C fires, which involve flammable gases such as propane and butane. They contain a dry powder that smothers the fire, interrupting the chemical reaction between fuel and oxygen.

Fire extinguishers are an essential piece of safety equipment in any workplace or home. They are designed to extinguish fires before they become too large to control and prevent them from causing damage to property and potentially causing injuries or fatalities.

Using the fire extinguisher symbols allows the user to react quickly and appropriately to extinguish a fire.

These types of fires typically occur in homes, offices, and other similar settings. Class A fire extinguishers contain water or a water-based extinguishing agent and are often found in a red container.

These types of fires are often found in garages, kitchens, and other locations where flammable liquids are stored or used. Class B fire extinguishers contain a foam or powder-based extinguishing agent and are usually found in a blue container.

These types of fires can be particularly dangerous because water-based extinguishing agents can conduct electricity and cause electrocution. Class C fire extinguishers contain a dry chemical extinguishing agent and are often found in a red container with a blue stripe.

These types of fires are rare but can be particularly dangerous because they can burn at extremely high temperatures and release toxic gases. Class D fire extinguishers contain a dry powder extinguishing agent and are often found in a yellow container.

These types of fires can be particularly difficult to extinguish because water-based extinguishing agents can cause the oil to spread, making the fire worse. Class K fire extinguishers contain a wet chemical extinguishing agent and are often found in a silver container.

It is important to choose the right type of fire extinguisher for your specific needs and to ensure that it is properly maintained and ready to use in case of an emergency. Remember to follow the PASS method when using a fire extinguisher:.

Your goal on a boat is some well-deserved rest and relaxation to get away from the world and enjoy the water. Whether at sea or cruising on a lake, you may find yourself in situations where you’re too far away to get help when something goes wrong.

A fire extinguisher is one of the essential pieces of safety equipment that help you do that. But it won’t help much if you can’t get to it in time, and in a small, contained area with no one else around, time is of the essence when an emergency arises.

Keep your fire extinguisher mounted in an easily accessible location. Store it away from spots where fires may suddenly break out, such as your engine or fuel containers.

If you store your fire extinguisher in rooms with flammable materials, the ideal spot to put it is next to the door. This gives your fire extinguisher enough space away from flammable objects and makes it easily accessible to people putting the fire out.

Let’s explore the types available on the market to see what makes the most sense. When it comes to boating accidents in the United States, fire incidents don’t make the top of the list.

Coast Guard. Of those reports, 47 involved igniting something that caused a fire.

You’re on a watercraft full of combustible materials and fire hazards. If you don’t take the proper precautions, you won’t be able to contain the fire and risk losing your boat, suffering from injuries, or worse – loss of life of yourself or your shipmates.

Rules state that your fire extinguisher storage should be in an easily accessible location, and you can find those spots in most areas on a boat. You can’t install just any portable fire extinguisher you want on your boat.

For boat year models 2018 and newer, you’re required to carry only 5-B and 20-B rated fire extinguishers on your boat.

What is a Class B Fire Extinguisher.

These extinguishers are suitable for extinguishing fires caused by flammable liquids and gasses. Class B extinguishers contain ammonium phosphate, halogenated agents, and carbon dioxide as extinguishing agents.

The USCG dictates where you should store a fire extinguisher on a boat. According to regulations, fire extinguishers must be stored on a wall bracket.

There are also recommendations for the height of your fire extinguisher mounting bracket: Modern fire extinguishers are pressurized, so you don’t need to worry about the contents of an extinguisher settling in the bottom.

If you have an older extinguisher, avoid storing it horizontally to prevent material from clumping on the bottom. For maintenance, experts recommend checking your extinguishers monthly.

The USCG has several regulations regarding fire extinguisher requirements on boats. There are a set of conditions outlined that determine when your boat must have a boat fire extinguisher:

For boats longer than 65 feet, you should check federal regulations to see what’s required. The age of a fire extinguisher is also important to the USCG.

You don’t want to ignore USCG regulations for safety, so be sure to check out a fire extinguisher FAQ to learn the answers to common questions. Now that you know what your responsibilities are for keeping marine fire extinguishers on your boat, you need to understand how to use them.

With that, you now know where to store a fire extinguisher, which type of extinguisher to buy, and how to use your extinguisher in an emergency.

We often see fire extinguishers in commercial buildings and offices –but if a fire broke out in your workplace, would you know how to use a fire extinguisher. If you don’t, then this could have unthinkable consequences.

That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on how to use a fire extinguisher in the workplace, so you have the knowledge you need to protect your people and your property. From fire extinguisher usage to storage and aftercare, our guide explains all.

These are:. Water fire extinguishers.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers. ABC Powder extinguishers.

Wet chemical extinguishers. Regardless of the type of premises you work in, it’s crucial to understand the types of fire extinguishers and the scenarios they’re often used for (we’ll discuss the various fire types and their properties further down).

Knowing this information will also inform your decision on the best fire safety equipment for your business.

They’re suitable for tackling fires on wood, paper, fabrics, and other solid materials. Identifiable by the Red ‘WATER’ label printed across the extinguisher, these extinguishers are predominantly red.

Can be used on: Class A fires. AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers, also known as Aqueous Film Forming Foams, are suited to fight solids that are burning, such as wood (class A), and also petrol and volatile liquids (class B).

AFFF Foam extinguishers can be identified by their cream label with ‘FOAM’ lettering.

Easily identifiable by their black label, CO2 fire extinguishers are designed to put out flammable liquid fires, but they can also extinguish electrical hazards. They don’t leave any harmful residue and contain pure carbon dioxide.

Can be used on: Class B fires. ABC powder and dry powder extinguishers are often interchangeable for fires with ordinary combustibles, energised electrical equipment, and flammable liquids.

They can be identified by their blue ‘POWDER’ label and are often suited to businesses using chemical processes or garage forecourts. Please note, though, that there’s the risk of inhalation when operating a powder fire extinguisher in enclosed spaces.

Therefore, you should use powder fire extinguishers with care and only if specified as the most appropriate choice. Can be used on: Class A, B and C fires.

Water mist extinguishers cool a fire’s temperature to below combustion level with a mist curtain, which cuts off the fire’s oxygen supply.

Can be used on: Class A + F fires. Wet chemical extinguishers are ideal for kitchens, as they can extinguish cooking fires more efficiently than water, foam, CO2, and powder extinguishers.

Identifiable through their yellow ‘WET CHEMICAL’ label, they attack a fire’s flames of the fire in multiple ways: Can be used on: Class A + F fires.

Next, we’ll explain these different types of fire and their properties and highlight the fire safety equipment that can be used to extinguish them. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is a skill that every trained staff member should have.

Now you know which type of extinguishers should be used to tackle which type of fire, the next step is to understand how to use a fire extinguisher.

This stands for:. Pull the pin from the extinguisher.

This pin is designed to stop the extinguisher’s handle from being pressed when not in use and accidentally operating in a non-emergency situation. Once you’ve pulled the pin, you need to test the extinguisher to make sure it works and understand how fast and far the stream travels.

Standing at a safe distance to the fire, you should make sure the nozzle is pointing forwards and aim towards the base of the fire. You can progress to the next stage once you have a good aim on the fire and a firm hold of the extinguisher outlet.

Squeeze the handles of the extinguisher together whilst keeping a safe distance from the fire. This action will engage the agent inside the device.

You should then sweep the nozzle from side to side upon your approach to the fire. Make sure you direct the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames, as doing so will give you the best chance of extinguishing the fire.

If you extinguish a fire, you should then examine the area for any smouldering hot spots that could reignite and fuel the fire. If the fire re-starts repeat the PASS process.

These bodies will ensure that your extinguisher is disposed of in a safe, environmentally-friendly way.

Fire wardens should check fire extinguishers weekly to ensure they’re in good working condition.

You should place your fire extinguisher in a location where it can be seen by anyone who’s following a fire escape route.

Now that you know how to use a fire extinguisher in your workplace, make sure you’re ready to protect your staff and your business with our range of fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment.

At PARRS, you’ll also find fire action notices, notices that locate fire fighting equipment and signs that show employees and members of the public where the closest fire exits are.

Fire safety within the workplace is vital and if neglected can have serious consequences that result in loss of life. Ensure that your employees and working environment are safe and equip areas with the relevant fire safety supplies from PARRS.

Related:.

Among fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers are a first-line defence mechanism to contain small fires in the home or workplace. However, they are of little use if you don’t know how to correctly operate them.

However, before we get to the mechanics of operation, you must know which fire extinguisher to use to suppress the different types of fire. Fire extinguishers are filled with various dousing agents to put out particular types of fires.

Ensure you are aware of the fire’s fuel before attempting to extinguish it, and only do so if you have the appropriate fire extinguisher. Class A: Suitable for typical combustible flames and fires involving wood, rubber, paper, various polymers, and textiles.

Class B: Appropriate for oil, grease, and fuel fires. Carbon dioxide, or a dry chemical, serves as the extinguishing agent.

Carbon dioxide or a dry chemical are the suppressing agents. Class D: For use with flammable metals.

Class K: Suitable for cooking fires, including those involving fat, grease, and oil. The chemical used to put out a fire can be wet or dry.

Dry chemicals are used as extinguishing agents.

Make sure the fire extinguisher you want to use is appropriate for the type of fire you are dealing with. For example, you should never use a water extinguisher on a fire involving electrical equipment.

The acronym PASS refers to these four fundamental processes. Break the seal by pulling the pin at the top of the extinguisher.

Test the extinguisher right away. This is done to ensure the extinguisher works and prove to the user how far the stream can reach.

Direct the nozzle or outlet at the fire’s source. To release the extinguishing agent inside, squeeze the handles simultaneously.

Move the nozzle side to side to aim the extinguishing agent at the flames’ base as you get closer to the fire. After putting out the fire, look for any lingering smouldering embers that could rekindle the fuel.

Before attempting to put out a fire, call for assistance. A fire may spread out of control faster than you think.

Before going near the fire, choose a secure escape route. Do not allow the flames, heat, or smoke to obstruct your escape route.

Always use an extinguisher only when it’s safe to do so. Get out if in doubt.

Doing it yourself can result in you pulling out the safety pin (which also breaks the plastic seal) rendering the extinguishers ineffective. For safety reasons, always try to work in pairs.

Fire professionals will check that: There are gauges on many extinguishers that indicate when the pressure is too high or too low.

The cylinder, hoses, and nozzles are carefully inspected to make sure they are dent-free, scratch-free, or corrosion-free. Any dirt, grease, or oil on the extinguisher’s exterior that could potentially block discharge is cleared.

Alternatively, fire specialists like Profire Safety Services can assist businesses with on-site training of employees and designated fire. Profire Safety Services also offers a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, fire safety plans, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.

Fires can happen at any time and in any place. Whether at home, in the workplace, or in a public setting, it is important to be prepared for emergency situations.

One essential tool for fighting fires is the fire extinguisher. A fire extinguisher is a device used to control or extinguish small fires, and it is important to know how to use one effectively in order to prevent serious damage or injury.

We will also cover important safety precautions to keep in mind when dealing with fires, as well as additional tips for preventing fires and staying safe in emergency situations. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of fire extinguishers and the steps to take in case of a fire.

So let’s get started.

Here are some important steps to take when preparing to use a fire extinguisher:.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when dealing with fire. Using a fire extinguisher can be intimidating, but following these simple steps can help you use it effectively and safely:

By following these simple steps and remembering the PASS acronym, you can use a fire extinguisher effectively and safely to put out small fires before they become larger and more dangerous. Different types of fires require different types of extinguishing agents.

It’s important to note that some extinguishing agents may be harmful or ineffective for certain types of fires, so it’s important to use the correct extinguishing agent for the specific type of fire you’re dealing with. By understanding the different types of fires and their corresponding extinguishing agents, you can use a fire extinguisher more effectively and safely.

Inspecting your fire extinguisher regularly is an important part of fire safety. Fire extinguishers must be checked regularly to ensure that they are in good working condition.

Here are the steps to properly inspect your fire extinguisher:.

If you notice any issues during your inspection, such as an expired or damaged extinguisher, be sure to replace it immediately. Additionally, it’s recommended to have a professional inspect your fire extinguishers regularly to ensure they’re in proper working order.

By following these additional fire safety tips, you can help prevent fires from occurring and be better prepared in case of an emergency. Remember that fire safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone in your household should be aware of and follow these safety measures.

By understanding the different types of fires and their extinguishing agents, as well as following the proper steps for using a fire extinguisher, you can help prevent fires and keep yourself and others safe in the event of an emergency. Remember to always keep your fire extinguishers accessible and in good working condition by inspecting them regularly.

In case of a fire, it’s important to stay calm and evacuate as quickly and safely as possible. Remember that your safety and the safety of others is the top priority.

Stay safe and make fire safety a priority in your daily life.

Recently, a viral youtube video was released by the Daily Military Defense & Archive. It shows an activated fire suppression system that can fill an aircraft hangar with foam in two minutes, covering at least 90 percent of the aircrafts with a simple, water-based foam.

Luckily, these systems usually trigger by accident or for a test run, and there aren’t a lot of cases where the system is triggered because danger is imminent. The government is successfully using this fire protection system to protect aircraft inside military hangars around the world.

They can be deployed with amazing speed, and for a government building of this size and caliber, this system could save countless employee lives and millions in property damage. The suppression systems offered and maintained by Total Fire & Safety are not quite as messy as the ones in the video, but they are similar in many ways.

Rest assured that the suppression system in your commercial kitchen won’t fill the room with foam, but it will still get the job done in an emergency.

Total Fire and Safety has suppression systems that can protect your people and your assets. For more information about suppression systems, contact Total Fire & Safety at 630-960-5060.

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When a fire starts in your home or business, you have mere seconds to act. Your best line of defence is a using the correct fire extinguisher.

With the right fire extinguisher and the knowledge of how to correctly use it, you can put out a fire or buy enough time to safely evacuate before emergency fire services personnel arrive on the scene. Here’s what you need to know about proper use of a fire extinguisher.

There are different types of portable fire extinguishers, and some are rated only for certain purposes. For example, a fire extinguisher that uses water should never be used on a grease or electrical fire.

These labels are color-coded to show which fires they can safely extinguish. You need to know:

PASS stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep. These four steps are all you need to know to operate a fire extinguisher.

In the case of a fire, pull it. This will break its seal.

You can test the fire extinguisher by pulling the pin and pressing the handle. Aim it away from yourself.

If a fire does erupt, you’ll know how far away from it you can be and still reach it with the stream. Approach the fire while remaining at a safe distance.

Squeeze the fire extinguisher handles together. This discharges the agent that extinguishes the fire.

To stop discharging the extinguishing agent, slowly let go of the handles. As you approach the fire, sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames.

Apply additional extinguishing agent to those areas. Only use a fire extinguisher if the flames are shorter than you and the fire is contained.

Although you don’t need to be a fire expert, becoming familiar with the types of fires and the types of fire extinguishers to use on them will help you maintain safety. There are six classes of fire, and they each have a letter designation.

Examples of Class A fires include burning wood, paper, plastic, and fabric. Class B fires start from flammable liquids, such as gasoline or diesel fuel, turpentine, or paint.

Class D fires result from the ignition of combustible metals, such as magnesium, aluminium or potassium. These are electrical fires.

Your home or business may have more than one type of fire extinguisher. The different types are designed to extinguish different fires.

Only use a water extinguisher on a Class A fire. Never use them on any other type of fire.

A dry chemical powder extinguisher creates a barrier between oxygen and the fuel of the fire. Use this type on Class A, B and E fires.

A carbon dioxide extinguisher takes away oxygen and reduces heat. It works on Class A, B and E fires.

Foam extinguishers cut off a fire’s oxygen supply. They work best on Class B fires and some Class A fires.

A wet chemical fire extinguisher removes heat, creates a barrier to oxygen and prevents re-ignition. Use it on Class F and Class A commercial kitchen fires.

Everyone who lives in your home or works in your business must know how to use the fire extinguisher. If only one person is familiar with the device’s use, and they’re not available when a fire starts, everyone’s lives could be in danger.

It’s good practice to test the fire extinguishers once per year and to have everyone go through the steps of using them. You have just a second or two to decide about whether you can extinguish the fire.

A fire doubles in size every 60 seconds. If you’re trying to find the extinguisher or figure out how to use it, you’re wasting precious time.

Our goal is to ensure that you’re prepared if a fire ignites in your home or business. A well-maintained fire extinguisher that you know how to use is your key to safety.